On February 6, 2005, Paul McCartney delivered an electrifying halftime performance at Super Bowl XXXIX in Jacksonville, Florida, captivating an estimated one billion viewers worldwide. His setlist featured iconic Beatles hits like “Drive My Car,” “Get Back,” and “Hey Jude,” along with the powerful James Bond theme “Live and Let Die.”
Interestingly, the NFL doesn’t pay artists for Super Bowl halftime shows. Instead, the massive exposure often leads to surges in music sales and streaming for the performers.
Over the years, the Super Bowl halftime show has grown into a major entertainment spectacle, attracting the biggest names in music. This evolution began in the 1990s when networks and sponsors recognized its potential to reach vast audiences. Memorable performances include Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking 1993 show, U2’s emotional tribute to 9/11 victims, and Prince’s legendary rendition of “Purple Rain” in Miami.
Paul McCartney’s 2005 show remains one of the most memorable in Super Bowl history, thanks to his timeless music and captivating stage presence.